By Gionna Clift, 2024-2025 Get It Back Campaign Intern
Looking to file your own taxes online for free but unsure which service to use? Look no further! Here is a comparison of four popular tax filing platforms: Direct File, Free File, MyFreeTaxes.com and GetYourRefund.org. While all offer self-file and free options, each service is unique. Compare them to determine the best option for yourself.
| IRS Direct File | IRS Free File | MyFreeTaxes.com | GetYourRefund.org | |
| Summary | A free IRS-run self-filing tool that covers most basic tax situations. | An IRS partnership with private tax companies to provide free versions of filing software. | Self-file referral to a free version of TaxSlayer software run by United Way Worldwide. | IRS-supported free standalone service that offers self-filing and virtual filing with help. |
| Features | Import data from your IRS account to fill in certain questions, mobile-friendly, available in English and Spanish, chat & phone support. | Different customer service options depending on the partner software used. | Email, phone, and chat support for self-filing. | Chat support, mobile-friendly, available in English and Spanish, and virtual “file with help” option*. |
| Income limit | $200,000 ($160,200 for multiple jobs) | $84,000 | $84,000 | $84,000 |
| Requirements | Create an ID.me account to use Direct File. | Go through the IRS Free File link to create an account to use a partner’s free software. | Go through MyFreeTaxes.com to create an account on TaxSlayer to ensure you use the free version. | Create a GetYourRefund account. |
| Eligibility | You must live in one of the 25 states that offer Direct File this year. Use the IRS Direct File eligibility checker for other requirements. | Since each partner is different, eligibility varies. Use the IRS Free File Find a trusted partner tool to learn about eligibility requirements. | Income is the largest eligibility factor. Check the MyFreeTaxes FAQ for the specific tax forms that are supported. | Refer to the GetYourRefund selection chart on the homepage to learn about eligibility to use the File Myself option.
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| State filing | Automatically connects to state filing software so you can file your state return for free. | Depends on the Free File provider. Some charge a fee for state tax preparation. | Included for free for all states. Find state returns under the ‘state’ tab in your TaxSlayer account. | Included for free for all states. |
| Tax years supported | Tax year 2024 (filed in 2025). | Tax year 2024 (filed in 2025). | Tax year 2024 (filed in 2025). | Tax year 2024 (filed in 2025). |
*The information listed for GetYourRefund is specifically for the “File Myself” option. Some features and qualifications for filing with help differ.
If you need in-person help from a trained tax preparer, or want to file tax returns for up to three previous years, Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) and Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) services are available for individuals who are eligible. Use the VITA locator tool or call 800-906-9887 to find the site nearest you.
You can also use GetYourRefund to file your taxes for free virtually with an IRS-certified preparer through VITA or to file prior year tax returns.
All information on this site is provided for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal or tax advice. The Center on Budget & Policy Priorities is not liable for how you use this information. Please seek a tax professional for personal tax advice.
